News & Resources

Tenant screening more important than ever

Dec 27, 2010 Matt Roesly

There are many things that property owners must be aware of when renting out homes or apartments to tenants. Among the most crucial are tenant screenings, which can ensure that the property is not rented out to someone who may cause potential problems in the future. According to many industry experts, getting proper information about those living in the space could have a long-term effect on the investment. "[Tenant background screenings] ... will oftentimes make or break your rental investment," according to Stock Market Review. Credit scores are a great predictor of future behavior, as are various data points such as Tenant Performance Reports, wage verification and previous landlord references. Property Management companies should provide you a full screening of the tenant to increase your chances of success. In an earlier article on the same site, property experts say that background screenings are important not only for the owner, but also the other tenants. It is the responsibility of the owner to make sure that people have a safe place to live.